How did humans begin their adventures in fashion? Where do your clothes start out? Enter the wonderful world of spinning fibre with the Handspinners & Weavers Guild of SA.

Talk: Clothing as Medicine 11.30 am - 12.30 pm

The majority of synthetic dyes used in clothing production are created and used in developing countries where health regulations are not well enforced. Workers have no access to protective equipment and often use banned products, which are harmful for human and environmental health. A study by the Environmental Working Group in 2005 found 287 different toxic chemicals within the blood of newborn children. Of these 287 chemicals, 217 were neurotoxins, and 208 damage growth development.

In contrast, Ayurveda and other ancient health systems have promoted the use of natural colours, fibres and dyes as a form of ‘clothing as medicine’. Plant fibres and dyes contain natural antibacterial and antiviral properties, and can also be ultra-rich sources of natural antioxidants promoting skin, respiratory, and intestinal health.

Join environmental artist Alana Gregory for a practical workshop on how to turn your wardrobe into a hub of healing!

“We can solve a great deal of the problems in the clothing industry by understanding hemp and it's resourcefulness. Hemp is by far, the best alternative to fast fashion and through clothing we also create a gateway to understanding all forms of hemp industry.” Chris Martin

Join us for a 45-minute discussion with Hemp Clothing Australia founder Chris Martin. Chris will discuss the collective efforts of the Industrial Hemp Association of South Australia (IHASA), sharing basic information about Hemp that is missing or being withheld from the general public's knowledge of clothing.